The alpha state is a higher state than theta and lower than beta. By getting into the ASL state you're closer to the door for entering the photoreading state.
I also have the quietude CD and frankly find the only alpha entrainment that come from that is by closing your eyes other than that it's merely pleasant music. Sorry to disappoint you but if you keep you eyes open when using that CD you mind will override alpha and go for theta since it is merely nice ambient sound. For years it has been shown that the mind can tune out ambient noises and still focus on tasks at hand.
If you close your eyes and keep them closed without drifting off to sleep then you will remain in an alpha state with or without the quietude CD.
The original question related to the Awakened Mind Focus CD (which is a different entrainment CD).
My answer was Nope I wouldn't recommend it
If Paul felt it was necessary then I am sure he would have made a special CD for it. As it is photoreading is much more practical than regular reading, we don't rely on music for regular reading so why would it be necessary to anchor yourself with entrainment devices to be an effient effective photoreader?
I don't recommend studying with loud pop music either but there will be many that swear they work better with it going. They do, but research also shows that they cannot bring the learning into the classroom because they cannot have the music going thus recreating the anchor.
If you like the quietude CD by all means use it, it is just an ambient music when you listen to it with your eyes open.
Once you've photoread enough books, yes, you'll probably drop the three two one and just go in and photoread after having defined your purpose. If you don't get yourself hooked on having to have music going you don't have to drop it later (music isn't part of the steps.)
Paul often hooks up photoreaders in his classes to an IBVA and has consistently shown that there is a low Beta and high theta activity during photoreading. With a distinct absence of alpha. I have witnessed this during my training on numerous occasions.
Since Paul is busy right now I can only point you to one of his responses on another thread.
http://www.learningstrategies.com/forum/ubb/Forum8/HTML/001803.html
CameronJ
It's low beta, probably due to the fact that you have your eyes open and are physically active turning the pages.
Whatever technique you use that starts slowing your mind is helpful. If you habitually follow the steps for a while you find that the brain responds faster and faster so that in time it is merely the thought that gets you there.
Alex
